Dormition Cathedral

Dormition Cathedral is an Eastern Orthodox structure in the city of Vladimir, western Russia. Five gilded domes rise above the main body of white limestone, whose exterior walls carry carved columns and reliefs in the same material.

Prince Andrey Bogolyubsky ordered the building raised between 1158 and 1160, then expanded it between 1185 and 1189. Mongol forces damaged the structure during the 13th century invasion, but the community restored the interior in the 15th century.

The name comes from the Orthodox feast of Mary's falling asleep, celebrated each August across Russia. During Soviet times the building served partly as a museum, and today services resume on select days alongside visitor access.

The building stands in the older town center, only a short walk from neighboring churches. Opening hours fall mostly in the afternoon, and on some days rooms close for internal events.

Andrei Rublev painted large wall scenes inside, whose surviving parts show episodes from the life of Jesus and the final judgment. Most of these works date from 1408 to 1410 and rank among the earliest documented pieces by the artist.

Location: Vladimir

Inception: 1158

Founders: Andrey Bogolyubsky

Architectural style: Russian Romanesque

Made from material: rock

Part of: White Monuments of Vladimir and Suzdal

Address: Большая Московская улица

Opening Hours: Segunda-feira-Domingo 13:00-16:00

Website: http://sobor33.ru

GPS coordinates: 56.12714,40.40924

Latest update: December 15, 2025 06:01